NEWS
September 2026
Louisiana has made significant progress in reducing opioid-related deaths and emergency department visits in recent years, while new national survey data provide a broader look at substance use, mental health, and access to treatment across the state.
From 2022 to 2025, opioid-related deaths in Louisiana decreased 59%, compared with a 46.2% decline nationally. During the same period, opioid-related emergency department visits in Louisiana declined 52%, and the rate of opioid prescriptions per 100 residents decreased 10%. Data for 2025 is preliminary.
“We’re seeing proven progress in behavioral health in Louisiana, and that is something worth celebrating,” said Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein.
Stronger Together: Advancing EMS in Louisiana
Thank you to everyone who came out in support of the bills aimed at improving EMS across Louisiana! Your presence truly made a difference.
Having such a strong group in attendance, and being able to share information, perspectives, and voices with the Senate committee was incredibly impactful. Advocacy like this helps move our profession forward and ensures better care for our communities.
A special thank you to Sam L. Jenkins, Jr. for SB 109 and Gerald Boudreaux for SB 221 for their leadership and support in advancing these important efforts.
We appreciate each of you who took the time to stand behind SB 109 and SB 221. Together, we are making meaningful strides toward strengthening EMS in Louisiana.
If you weren’t able to attend this time, there will likely be more opportunities in the future. Please stay on the lookout for email updates and requests for presence at the Capitol. Your voice is important, and we hope to see you at the next opportunity!
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